Updated July 2024 No doubt you've heard of Omega-3 fatty acids, Omega-6 fatty acids, and essential fatty acids. You may even take them yourself. But did you know that they are vital for pets, too? The term "essential" means that the body cannot manufacture the nutrient, but must obtain it in the diet. For example, humans and dogs can make Vitamin A out of beta-carotene, but cats must consume pre-formed Vitamin A directly from their food. Among fatty acids, arachidonic acid is essential for cats but not for dogs; while ...